1-2-3-4 Dumplings
Delicious fluffy dumplings made with simple ingredients, perfect for adding to stews and broths. Easy to prepare, these savory bites are ideal for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients together.
- Cut in shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add milk and stir only until blended.
- Drop by spoonfuls into stew or broth.
- Cover pan tightly, bring to boiling point, lower heat and steam for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure you do not overmix the dough after adding the milk; stir just until combined. If you don’t have shortening, butter or lard can be used as substitutions, but shortening will yield a flakier result. You can also experiment with adding herbs or spices to the dough for an extra flavor boost, making these dumplings a versatile side similar to those found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These dumplings are perfect served alongside hearty stews or broths, enhancing the overall meal. Consider pairing them with a rich chicken stew or a vegetable broth for a comforting dinner. They also work well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently steam them over simmering water for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating directly in broth to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3-4 Dumplings contains roughly 1164 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1925mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dumpling dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before cooking. Just keep in mind that the longer the dough sits, the less fluffy the dumplings may become. For best results, use the dough fresh after mixing.
What can I use instead of baking powder?
If you find yourself out of baking powder, you can create a substitute by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed. This will help your dumplings rise properly and maintain their light texture.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dumplings. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When ready to use, cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the steaming time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).